Rodney Cottam, a veteran of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, has turned his passion for running into a powerful tool for overcoming adversity—and helping others do the same. After an accident in 2004 left him permanently paralysed in his left arm, Rodney could have given up. Instead, he made a critical choice to face his new reality with resilience and to push his limits through running. Now, he’s using his strength and determination to support Invictus Australia and inspire his fellow veterans. 

From Tragedy to Triumph 

Rodney’s life changed forever in 2004 when a severe motor vehicle accident on the way to his base left him with a fractured pelvis, broken ribs, a punctured lung, and spinal nerve damage that resulted in Brachial Plexus Palsy— paralysing his left arm. Overnight, Rodney went from being an elite soldier in peak physical condition to having no movement or feeling in one arm. 

Despite this, his military training and experience as a competitive athlete gave him the resilience to push forward. Rodney refused to let his injury define him. Instead, he turned to running—a sport he had always loved—to reclaim his strength. Starting slowly with elliptical machines, he gradually worked his way back to road and trail running, mastering his balance and adapting to his new physical limitations. 

A Legacy of Epic Runs for Invictus Australia 

Rodney’s passion for running has evolved into a mission to give back, particularly to the veteran community. In 2022, Rodney undertook a 350-kilometre ultra-trail run from the NSW Southern Highlands to the peak of Mt Kosciuszko. Over five grueling days, he pushed himself through extreme distances and rugged terrain, raising more than $35,000 for Invictus Australia. 

The following year (2023) Rodney took on another monumental challenge, running from Port Macquarie to the ANZAC Memorial in Sydney. This 500-kilometre journey not only tested his physical and mental limits but also brought his fundraising total to nearly $100,000 for Invictus Australia. 

These runs have had a lasting impact, both for Rodney and the veteran community. Through these challenges, he has brought significant attention to the role of sport in recovery, resilience, and connection. His efforts have helped raise crucial funds to support veterans and families in their own journeys of healing and reintegration through sport. 

The 2024 Challenge: Pushing Limits for a Cause 

This year, Rodney is set to embark on his biggest challenge yet. On the 26^th of October 2024, he will set off to tackle a 560-kilometre ultra-trail run, averaging an extraordinary 80 kilometres per day over seven days. The race will once again be in support of Invictus Australia and Rodney is determined to surpass his previous achievements both in distance and impact. His goal is not only to raise even more funds but also to highlight the importance of resilience and the transformative power of sport in the lives of veterans. 

For me, resilience is facing something and going – I can get past this. Running has given me purpose and a way to contribute to something bigger than myself.”

Rodney Cottam

Rodney’s third run challenge in support of Invictus Australia is set to be a testament to his unwavering determination and commitment to the veteran community. His message is clear: when we believe in ourselves, we are capable of pushing beyond any perceived limitations. Through sport, we can heal, rebuild, and find new purpose. 

Running for Resilience and Recovery 

Rodney’s runs in 2022 and 2023 have not only raised nearly $100,000 for Invictus Australia, but they’ve also inspired countless veterans and their families to see the possibilities of recovery through sport. His upcoming 2024 challenge represents the next step in his journey—and the chance to make an even bigger impact. 

Rodney is passionate about promoting resilience, recovery, and the healing power of physical activity. His own journey of overcoming injury and paralysis through running stands as a powerful example of how veterans can rebuild their lives through sport. This year’s challenge promises to be a landmark event—not just for Rodney, but for all those who believe in the power of resilience. 

Rodney ‘Rocket’ Cottam’s incredible story is proof that no matter the obstacles, we can always find a way to rise above and push forward. His ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and raising awareness for Invictus Australia continues to change lives—one run at a time. 

Our Veteran Engagement team runs events across the country each day. To keep up to date with what is happening in your area, join your local Facebook group. 

• ACT Local Facebook group
• SA Local Facebook group
• Sth East QLD Facebook group
• Nth QLD Facebook group
• Nth NSW Local Facebook group
• NSW Sth Coast Local Facebook group
• Victoria Facebook group
• WA Facebook group
• TAS Facebook group

About Invictus Australia: Invictus Australia encourages veterans and their families to connect and engage with their communities through sport. Whether participating or volunteering at grassroots level, to competing internationally at an Invictus or Warrior Games, Invictus Australia leverages the power of sport to proactively foster good health and aid in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration. Invictus Australia promotes the physical, social and emotional benefits of sport for all, and shine a light on the unique needs of younger veterans, particularly the challenges associated with transitioning from military to civilian life.